Dr. Ayden Scheim is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health. He is also an Affiliate Scientist in the Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation and Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute at St. Michael’s Hospital (Toronto) and an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Western University. He studies the impacts of social, policy, and healthcare environments on the health of stigmatized populations. In particular, he conducts community-engaged research with transgender populations and people who use drugs, both domestically and globally. You can learn more about his research here and follow him on Twitter. Dr. Scheim discusses the varying ways that stigma and discrimination toward trans persons, persons who use drugs, and racialized persons show up to shape the everyday lives of people in ways that challenge basic humanity and harm health.  We discuss the backlash following progress on human rights. Ayden shares how everybody has a role in reducing stigma, providing practical tips for engaging in personal reflection and growth, community engagement, political activism and shifting our interpersonal interactions.  Episode hosted by Dr. Carmen Logie. Supported by funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation and Canada Research Chairs program. Original music and podcast produced by Jupiter Productions, who have various production services available to support your podcast needs.